Canine Nutrition

Petside Blog
|
Poll Archive
|
A-Z
- AAHA
- Beds
- Bones
- Books
- Bowls
- Carriers
- Cat Food
- Catnip
- Collars
- Crates
- Dog Food
- Grooming Tools
- Leashes
- Pet Food
- Pet Picture
- Pet Store
- Pharmacy
- Toys
- Treats

| Print | By | October 1, 2008 3:20 PM

Dog lovers heartily agree that the canine species is a delightful pet and our best friends. In fact, dogs are considered one of the top domesticated animals with which we share our hearth and heart.

We are greeted daily with wagging tails, kisses and joy when we return home after being away for even only a few hours. As furry friends who share their abundance of unconditional love, they are always glad to see us, and communicate how important we are to them, and how much they adore us.

Since we have a mutual admiration society going here, in addition to the amount of quality time we spend playing with them one of the top priorities is keeping them in robust health. Sound nutrition is one of the keys to a sound body and spirit.

Feeding the highest quality food to our dogs is essential. Providing good nutrition can add years to our dogs' lifespan, with better health, and increased energy. We can help to prevent diseases associated with obesity as well, by providing them their optimum dietary needs. Of course, the size, breed, body type and weight of our dog factors into the most efficient feeding plan. There is no "one size fits all" formula, which will provide all dogs' needs.

How many treats are enough?

In planning for the best diet for your dog, start with a visit to your vet, or a canine Nutritionist. These professionals can give excellent suggestions as to the brand and type of food, which will fit your dog's needs. We are bombarded with dog food commercials on TV, but just because a brand is "popular”, it may not be suited for your particular pooch. Pay attention to the calorie requirements for your dog that may be listed on the label of some of the better commercially available dog foods. Be sure that your dog is receiving his daily protein requirements.

Do your own research as well: Let your fingers surf the Internet and “Google" a simple query, "What is the best diet for dogs?" There are many excellent articles about proper nutrition for canines available. Talk to your veterinarian or nutritionist about their suggestions and those that appeal to you from your research. Interestingly, today greater numbers of dog owners are feeding their pets raw bone and meat diets, which are excellent platforms for sound health. Are commercial foods, which are available in your local supermarket as nutritionally balanced as dog foods available at Health Food Stores, or on the Internet? Are the most popular brands the best choice?

Of course, it goes without saying that no matter what products you use, that it is important not to over feed your dog. Take into consideration, their age, size, and amount of exercise they receive daily. Factor in their overall health as well. Avoid feeding your dog table scraps, as they can be unhealthy for your pet, and it will ultimately stop any begging behavior at the dinner table.

Feed your dog on a schedule with measured amounts of food. Dogs, like humans look forward to their daily meals. Naturally, puppies under the age of three months have different feeding schedule requirements than older puppies and adult dogs. Talk with your veterinarian about an appropriate schedule for your particular dog.

Have you consulted with your veterinarian about nutrition? Was it helpful? Share your experiences by leaving a comment.

RELATED TOPICS:

« Previous

Cheryl Gorder October 2, 2008 11:31 AM

AW- the dog in the photo is a cutie! I fed Reggie Royal Canin, it had a special heart formula in it for him, but it was a bit costly. Reggie was a tiny bit thin-healthy sized dog. Weight issues can always be a problem with heart disease, but it wasn't a problem for us. Reggie was a good size Chin thankfully-- he did get into the hard cat food some, which is more fattening, but my vet said it shouldn't be a problem as long as it wasn't everyday and Reggie stayed trim.

I have been told that grocery store dog & cat foods aren't as good, they use more fillers in them supposedly. That's what I've been told anyway.

Great Article Jo!! :>)

Vicki October 2, 2008 1:06 PM

Currently I have seven dogs of all ages. My lab is overweight, so she gets food that is for weight control. I have some senior dogs and they are fed food for joints and other things necessary for their age. The others still get good nutritional food. Feeding time around here can be quite stressful

Barb October 3, 2008 1:49 PM

It is essential to read the ingredients label and weigh meat protein vs vegetable proteins with the majority from meat. Also, no more then 10% of the diet should be from treats.

Vicki October 4, 2008 9:37 AM

Since I have seven dogs of all ages, I feed nutritn that is geared towards their needs. The older ones get feed with supliments that aid in joint health. One gets feed for overweight dogs, and the othres get nutrition for their age and needs also. Feeding time can get a bit complicated around here.

Amy October 4, 2008 2:56 PM

Now if I could only convince hubby NOT to share everything with the critters. I even had one vet write out a prescription for NO HUMAN FOOD. But he didn't listen.
Great article Jo thank for all the information.